Ajax attacker Justin Kluivert, son of Dutch legend Patrick, joked that only Lionel Messi would be able to confirm whether Barcelona are interested in acquiring him.

“I’m not in contact with Messi, so I don’t know if it’s true,” the 18-year-old said in an interview with FourFourTwo, responding to reports that the Barcelona talisman has instructed the club board to sign the youngster.

“Only he knows what happened, but it’s good to hear that.”

Kluivert is said to prefer a move to Barcelona, where his father had an illustrious spell, although he said he wouldn’t say no to Barca’s bitter rivals Real Madrid.

The Dutchman also revealed that the infamous chat between him and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho after last season’s Europa League final had nothing to do with a potential transfer to the Premier League club, who are said to be in pursuit of his signature.

“He [Mourinho] told me it was nice to see me again after so long, because he had known me since I was a baby,” Kluivert explained. Mourinho was a coach at Barcelona during Kluivert senior’s time at the club.

“He said it was great to see me and that I am doing well. “

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The Red Devils need a new centre-back and have watched the 29-year-old in action over the past few months.

Although they are interested in signing Tottenham ace Toby Alderweireld, who is out of contract at the end of this season, Sokratis is also on their radar – and at £25 million (Dh 127m) – should be an easier target to bring to Old Trafford.

Chelsea are believed to be keen on signing the Greek international, but United are understood to be front-runners to secure his signature.

SLAVISA JOKANOVIC

The Fulham boss has been linked with the Chelsea manager’s job should Antonio Conte depart this summer, the Daily Mail says.

Jokanovic, who appeared 39 times for the Stamford Bridge club between 2000 and 2002, has revived the Whites’ fortunes at Craven Cottage as they continue their push for Premier League promotion.

Fulham have been on a winning streak since December and that has only served to increase speculation that the 49-year-old Serb could make the short trip across the English capital to the King’s Road side.

The Serbian is said to be ahead of former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique in the running for the position.

HECTOR BELLERIN

The Arsenal right-back is reportedly trying to secure a move back to Barcelona this summer, Mundo Deportivo reports.

The La Masia graduate had been linked with a return to Camp Nou last term, but the Gunners refused to sell the elusive 22-year-old.

However, the £50million-rated (Dh250m) Spanish international still has his sights set on a return to Blaugrana following a difficult season at the Emirates.

While Sergi Roberto’s new contract extension and the form of Nelson Semedo give Barca two options in the position, Bellerin is still highly thought of by the Catalan giants and that won’t put the La Liga club off pursuing his services.

Bellerin is just one of several Arsenal stars considering their future in north London.

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Manchester City have entered the race to sign the Monaco star, according to the Telegraph.

The 22-year-old was previously the subject of heavy interest from Arsenal last summer, while Liverpool were rumoured to have had several bids rejected for the winger.

But it is reported the Frenchman could be set to join Pep Guardiola at Etihad Stadium as the Sky Blues look to bolster their forward options ahead of next season.

Lemar, who can play on either side or through the middle, has made 107 appearances for Monaco, scoring 22 goals during his time in the south of France.

RICHARLISON

Watford’s emerging star has offered hope to Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham by admitting to FourFourTwo that he would be open to a high-profile switch soon.

The Brazilian has had an impressive start to life at Vicarage Road, scoring five times in 15 appearances.

However, the goals dried up and the 20-year-old’s last strike came against West Ham in November.

Chelsea would have an advantage in signing Richarlison as the player’s agent has helped the west London club with several transfers involving Brazilian players, including Willian, Oscar and David Luiz.

Richarlison would command a fee in the region of £30 million (Dh 152m).

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